Roberts County
Roberts County is located in the east central portion of the Texas Panhandle, approximately 75 miles east of Amarillo along scenic U.S. Highway 60. Located in and along Red Deer Creek, the county seat of Miami offers a quaint respite for visitors to the Texas Panhandle. Centuries-old cottonwood trees, colorful mesas, and cap rocks offer visitors a unique contrast to the usual flat, monotonous scenery of the Panhandle.
The northern half of Roberts County is bisected by the tributaries and terrain breaks of the once powerful Canadian River. Historically, the Canadian was an invaluable water source for early Indian tribes, as well as later migrating settlers. Inevitably, this mix evolved into noted Indian battles including the Battle of Adobe Walls, and other more minor skirmishes which have since become known as the “Red River Wars.”
Visitors to Miami should heed one small bit of caution. Miami is pronounced as “MiamA” not “MiamY.” Many visitors and newcomers have made this mistake in pronunciation, which is quickly pointed out by vigilant locals. When questioned as to this variance in pronouncement, most natives will reply, “We want to distinguish our beautiful part of the world from that in Florida.”
While in Miami, visitors are encouraged to visit our Roberts County Museum. Noted for its outstanding collection of early Indian artifacts, the museum also showcases early lifestyles and necessities required to eke out a meager living in the early eastern Texas Panhandle. A stop in Miami would not be complete without a tour of the newly restored Roberts County Courthouse.
First-time visitors to the Plains region may note that most communities in the area are between 20 and 25 miles apart. The explanation of this feature came to light when an old, retired railroader explained that between 20 and 25 miles was the limit that a steam powered train locomotive could make without a water recharge! Thus a community and a railroad water stop were established.
If a visit to Roberts County happens to fall on the first Saturday in June, everyone is cordially invited to drop in and attend the National Cow Calling Championship and Steak Cook Off. This event is the official opening of summer for the county and an opportunity for past and present residents to come together and renew old acquaintances and make many more new ones.
On behalf of our hospitable citizenry, we extend a cordial invitation to come visit our charming county and community. – County Judge Vernon H. Cook